April 30-Emperor Akihito of Japan will renounce the throne. This is the first abdication in the history of the country over the past 200 years, reports “Russian Dialogue” with reference to the BBC.

The official ceremony of abdication took place in the Palace hall “matsu-no-mA”. In his parting words, the Emperor thanked his people for their support and said he would pray for the welfare of Japan.

Leaving the room where the ceremony took place, Akihito bowed to present to officials.

Akihito succeeded to the throne 7 January 1989, after the death of Emperor Hirohito, but the official ceremony of his enthronement took place on 12 November 1990. The Japanese also responded with gratitude to the Emperor, who helped victims of natural disasters and diseases.

In 2016, Akihito announced his intention to relinquish power a year later, the Parliament supported the law that made his abdication possible.

Crown Prince 59-year-old Naruhito will come to the throne on 1 may 2019.

The Emperor in Japan has only ceremonial powers but is an important symbol of the state.

Political power in the country belongs to the government.